Iran's new hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has presented his proposed cabinet to parliament, triggering what is expected to be lengthy debate over the qualifications of the 21 nominees.

In an address Sunday, the president said he has nominated "strong, brave and expert" people. However, some analysts have questioned whether acting Tehran Mayor Ali Saeedlou has the experience to manage Iran's Oil Ministry. Debate is expected to last through much of the week.

Mr. Ahmadinejad also lashed out at Western governments that maintain economic ties with Iran while opposing its nuclear program.

It is widely assumed the president was referring to Britain, France and Germany - key trading partners who called an emergency session of the International Atomic Energy Agency earlier this month over Iran's plans to restart its nuclear fuel program.